1999 BMW 323 vs. 2001 Audi A3

To start off, 2001 Audi A3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 323 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2001 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 BMW 323 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1999 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2001 Audi A3 (330 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 323. 2001 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1999 BMW 323 2001 Audi A3
Make BMW Audi
Model 323 A3
Year Released 1999 2001
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 1967 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 170 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 330 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 1750 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 18.0:1
Top Speed 201 km/hour 207 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1430 kg 1340 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4210 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L